NSW Ports has welcomed a Federal Government announcement to commence public consultation for an offshore wind development zone in the Illawarra.
NSW Ports CEO Marika Calfas said Port Kembla will be essential for delivering offshore wind projects to support the state’s growing renewable energy demand due to its ideal location.
“NSW Ports stands ready to work with the NSW and Federal governments on measures to provide investment certainty for offshore wind projects – and the usage of our port facilities – to underpin future infrastructure needs,” Ms Calfas said.
“Today’s announcement demonstrates the Federal Government’s commitment to offshore wind in the Illawarra and is a critical step for industry to progress projects that will help deliver a more sustainable energy future.
“NSW Ports has already launched concept plans for a large-scale port facility at Port Kembla’s Outer Harbour which demonstrate how the port can be used to support the rapidly emerging offshore wind sector in the coming years.”
Port Kembla is close to Greater Sydney’s growing population and surrounded by industrial lands. It is within the NSW Government’s Illawarra Renewable Energy Zone and adjacent to the Federal Government’s proposed Illawarra offshore wind development zone.
Ms Calfas said NSW Ports’ Outer Harbour development plans will support the handling, set down and assembly of offshore wind components – as well as the load-out of the completed turbine units to the zoned location offshore.
“Our proposed facility provides an opportunity for significant job creation, domestic innovation and decarbonisation. But we need to act now to progress these plans that can strengthen our region and support our state,” Ms Calfas said.
“Delivering this type of major enabling infrastructure in time requires substantial and ongoing collaboration between all levels of government, private enterprise, industry and the community.”
“We have been engaging with several offshore wind proponents in recent months to inform the development of our designs.
“In addition to our plans for offshore wind, Port Kembla already handles renewable energy components to support the development of onshore wind farms, hydroelectric and solar power projects and is well placed to support the growing hydrogen sector and critical component minerals in the longer term as well.”
For more information visit www.nswports.com.au
To keep up to date with all marine industry news visit www.marinebusinessnews.com.au
